Rate Guide

Budget Getaways Review

Located in a remote area midships between Swellendam and Bredasdorp (40km), your accommodation at this WWF-owned nature reserve comes in the form of a converted milking shed.

Accommodating a total six guests, Haarwegskloof combines thick mud-brick walls, tinted screed floors, and basic, yet comfortable furnishings - which all add up to a simple country persona.

Sleeping-wise, you’ve got three bedrooms (two doubles and a twin) - these share two bathrooms with a shower and toilet apiece. Linen and towels are provided.

The living area centers around a large farmstyle fireplace, the kitchen is open-plan and equipped, and there's dining table and breakfast counter for meals.

The cottage spills straight onto the Overberg - as such, it could do with a covered stoep. Choose your braai spot, light the Blitz and take in that rolling countryside.

Turning to activity, Haarwegskloof and Nature are synonymous. In fact, the reserve’s research centre is right adjacent to the cottage.

Stepping out the gate, De Hoop Nature in only 10km away, so you really are right in the thick of it.

There's also plenty scope walk or cycle to your heart’s content, head into the surrounding hills for sundowners, visit a nearby wine farm, or just chill back at base camp and soak up the setting. For summer months, there's a tiny swimming pool at the research centre.

Summing up, one recent patron hits the proverbial nail on the head: “As a getaway it is superb. As a place to be surrounded by nature it is grand.

"Truly a place where holistic conservation ecotourism takes place. Phenomenal flowers, and freedom to walk and experience nature at your own pace. Comfortable, good quality for your money accommodation and service!"

(Alouise Niemand Lynch, visited Jan 2016)

"As a Getaway it is superb. As a place to be surrounded by nature it is grand. The facilities and the accommodation are of the best available and I was delighted by the atmosphere. The beds are comfortable and although some facilities appear basic - everything works to a high standard. The peace and quiet offered is amazing."

(Don Evans, visited Feb 2016)

"It's a picturesque little building. Good for conferences and just as a backpackers lodge. It's clean and tidy and isn't too far from civilization as well as close to natural areas, such as De Hoop nature reserve. All in all a good place to visit."

(Linsey de Jager, visited Feb 2016)

"I used this as a training venue for 11 students for 13 days. Excellent value for money."